Understanding how retinal cells interact during neurodegeneration and inflammation

Establishing a human cellular model of retinal ganglion cell compartmentalization in neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation

NIH-funded research Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10927370

This study is looking at how certain brain cells interact and affect each other when vision is lost, especially in conditions like glaucoma, to help find new ways to protect your eyesight.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIndiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Indianapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10927370 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the interactions between retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and glial cells, such as astrocytes and microglia, in the context of neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation. By developing a human cellular model, the research aims to replicate the conditions that lead to vision loss, particularly in diseases like glaucoma. The approach focuses on understanding how these cells support each other and how their dysfunction contributes to RGC degeneration. This could provide insights into the mechanisms of vision loss and potential therapeutic targets.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing vision loss or at risk for conditions like glaucoma and other neurodegenerative disorders affecting the retina.

Not a fit: Patients with vision loss due to non-neurodegenerative causes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating vision loss associated with neurodegenerative diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using cellular models to study neurodegeneration, but this specific approach focusing on human retinal cells is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Indianapolis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.